Geographic Location

Zhongshan Park Yu Garden sits within the Forbidden City’s walls in Beijing’s Dongcheng District. Though part of Zhongshan Park, this hidden gem feels worlds away from the bustling tourist crowds. To reach it, enter through Zhongshan Park’s south gate (near Qianmen Street) and follow signs toward the “Pleasure Garden”—a peaceful oasis tucked behind ancient trees.

Transportation Tips

  • By subway: Ride Line 1 to Tiananmen East Station or Line 5 to Qianmen Station.
  • By foot: A 10-minute walk from Tiananmen Square. Look for the park’s red-walled entrance.
  • Tip: Visit early! Zhongshan Park opens at 6 AM, and Yu Garden quiets down before midday crowds arrive.

Natural Scenery: A Golden Wonderland

At Yu Garden, nature takes center stage. The heart of the garden is “Le Spring” (乐泉), a 14-meter-long, 7-meter-wide pool ringed by white marble railings. Here, goldfish and koi fish dance in crystal-clear water—locals say feeding them brings good luck! Surrounding the pool, 34 glass-embedded windows display even more fish, turning the corridor into a living aquarium. Shade comes from ancient locust trees and bamboo groves, making it a cool escape on hot days.

Cultural Highlights: Architecture with Soul

Yu Garden’s layout follows traditional Chinese design. Three pavilions anchor the space:

  • A blue-tiled, double-eaved octagonal pavilion stands front and center.
  • Matching square and rectangular pavilions flank either side, all connected by 38-meter-long covered corridors.
  • The corridors aren’t just for walking—peek through their 34 fish-themed windows to see swimming goldfish up close!
  • A stone tablet carved with “Yu Garden Diary” shares the garden’s history (translated into English nearby).

Smart Facilities for Visitors

  • Feeding stations: Buy fish food at the park’s main shop (just $1 for a small cup!).
  • Rest areas: Wooden benches line the corridors, perfect for soaking in the view.
  • Clean restrooms: Modern facilities near the south entrance.
  • Shade everywhere: Thanks to pergolas and trees, there’s no harsh sun here.

The Ultimate Chill-Out Experience

Visiting Yu Garden feels like stepping into a timeless poem. Start at the octagonal pavilion to admire the full layout. Stroll east to the square pavilion, then west to the rectangular one—each offers a slightly different view of the gardens. Kids love racing to spot fish first, while photographers will flip for the blue tiles reflecting in the pool. End your visit by reading the “Yu Garden Diary” plaque, which explains how the garden’s name (“Yu”) plays on the Chinese word for “joy” (愉)—a nod to the happiness fish-watching brings.

Pro tip: Bring a pair of binoculars to catch the intricate details on the pavilion roofs, and don’t forget your camera—this place is Instagram gold!